Christmas caroling may only be something we see in the movies nowadays, but we didn’t want to let that stop us from declaring our top 5! So, if you are venturing out into the cold this festive season to serenade your neighbours, be sure to add these carols to your list…
O Holy Night
This Christmas classic was originally based on a French-language poem written by poet Placide Cappeau in 1843. The English version of this poem was then written by John Sullivan Dwight with Adolphe Adam composing the music at the end of 1843. The carol itself is reflecting on the birth of Jesus.
Many artists have recorded their own version of this song, namely Mariah Carey in 194, Celine Dion in 1998 and The Cast of Glee most recently in 2010.
Silent Night
A very popular Christmas carol among the young and old alike, Silent Night was composed in 1818 by Franz Gruber with lyrics written by Joseph Mohr in Austria. The carol was first recorded in 1905.
As one of the most well-known carols, a number of famous artists recorded versions including Mariah Carey in 2009, Elvis Presley and Nat King Cole.
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
This traditional English Christmas carol was first published in 173 in Hymns and Sacred Poems. It was written by Charles Wesley and later adapted by George Whitefield and others.
The 12 Days of Christmas
Another very traditional English Christmas carol, The 12 Days of Christmas was first published in the late 18th Century. The carol, unsurprisingly, is about the 12 days that make up the Christmas season from Christmas Day to the day before Epiphany (5th January). There are many variations across the UK with each gift holding a different meaning.
O Come, All Ye Faithful
This Christmas carol was originally written in Latin that has been attributed to various different authors including John Francis Wade, John Reading, King John IV of Portugal and anonymous Cistercian monks. The carol was first published in 1751 and is notably one of the most well-known when we think of caroling!
